Source: guidestar.org and 2011 Form 990; this information is self-reported by the charity

About 8,500 supporters are expected to participate in the 10th anniversary of Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks at the Orange County Great Park, El Toro Field, on Nov. 16.

Powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, this fundraising effort generates vital funds for autism research and raises awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism, the fastest-growing serious developmental disorder, and the need for increased research funding to combat this disorder.

Autism Walk registration begins at 9 a.m., the opening ceremony is at 9:30 a.m., and the walk kicks off at 10:30 a.m. Service Champions Heating & Air Conditioning is the 10th anniversary presenting sponsor. For more information, go to: walknowforautismspeaks.org/orangecounty.

In 2012, Orange County Walk Now for Autism raised $255,000. Walk Now for Autism Speaks is North America's largest grass-roots autism walk. The Orange County Great Park is at 6990 Marine Way.

About Autism Speaks

New York-based Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism advocacy organization, dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism, and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. autismspeaks.org.

About Autism

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, autism now affects about 1 in every 88 U.S. children, including 1 in 54 boys. Autism is a complex condition that affects a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges.

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